Last updated: November 11, 2024
Enjoy the festive charm of San Jacinto with our detailed event guide. For San Jacinto regulars and one-time visitors, this guide is your key to unlocking festive delights.
One of the most enchanting events to experience this season is the Mission Inn Festival of Lights, where dazzling displays transform the streets into a winter wonderland. SeaWorld San Diego Christmas Celebration brings the holiday spirit to life with whimsical decorations and lively entertainment perfect for families. And the December Nights at Balboa Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring food, music, and art that celebrate the season. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Nation's largest holiday light collection.
The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is a spectacular holiday event featuring millions of twinkling lights, live entertainment, and festive decorations at the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa.
Where: Riverside | More Info: Mission Inn Festival of Lights
Twinkling lights and festive floats in Old Town Temecula.
The Santa’s Electric Light Parade in Temecula features twinkling lights from decorated floats, holiday music from school marching bands, and festive marchers making their way down the parade route into Old Town Temecula.
Where: Temecula | More Info: Santa’s Electric Light Parade
Drive-through holiday lights with digital animations and LED technology.
Magic of Lights is a drive-through holiday lights experience featuring spectacular light displays, favorite holiday scenes, and characters. The event includes larger-than-life displays like the Holiday Barbie and Bigfoot Monster Truck, as well as life-sized dinosaurs from Prehistoric Christmas.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Magic of Lights
Dazzling decorations and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Join us at The Shops On El Paseo in Palm Desert, CA, for our annual Tree Lighting celebration. Adorned with dazzling decorations, this event features Santa and Mrs. Claus, delightful carolers, and delicious seasonal treats. Immerse yourself in a merry atmosphere perfect for capturing holiday memories.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Enchanted Desert Glow: The Shops On El Paseo's Annual Tree Lighting
Community holiday shopping with diverse vendors and festive activities.
The Menifee Hometown Holiday Festival is a community event featuring over 60 vendors, food and drinks, a visit with Santa, an Ugly Sweater Contest, and a Charity Toy Drive.
Where: Menifee | More Info: Menifee Hometown Holiday Festival
Community-driven celebration of local artisans and small businesses.
The Merry Little Market is a three-day event at Promenade Temecula, featuring a rich tapestry of small businesses, artisans, and craftsmen. It offers an exquisite range of handmade goods, delectable treats, and unique treasures. Visitors are greeted by passionate entrepreneurs excited to share their stories and showcase their creations. The event celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and community support, with various activities and entertainment for all ages.
Where: Temecula | More Info: Merry Little Market
Live theatrical experience on a real train with Santa and hot chocolate.
The Polar Express is a live theatrical production aboard a slow-moving train, featuring scripted scenes, live singing, dancing, and audience interaction. Passengers enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while reading along with the classic children's book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and give each guest the first gift of Christmas.
Where: Perris | More Info: The Polar Express
World-class ballet performance with elaborate sets and costumes.
Inland Dance Theatre presents The Nutcracker, a classic ballet featuring over 100 performers, including young dancers and professionals, at the historic California Theatre in San Bernardino. The production includes Tchaikovsky's iconic score and beloved characters like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince.
Where: San Bernardino | More Info: The Nutcracker Ballet Performance
Holiday celebration with 20 themed storefronts and diverse activities.
North Pole Village at Snow-Fest features holiday-themed storefronts, a holiday tree lighting ceremony, and various activities like puppet shows, storytime reading, and a fire elf workshop. The event includes a holiday outdoor market, free train rides, and real snow in the park.
Where: Cathedral City | More Info: North Pole Village at Snow-Fest
Unique blend of classical violin with modern dance and acrobatics.
Lindsey Stirling brings her electrifying violin performance to the stage, blending classical music with modern dance and acrobatics in a theatrical display of virtuosic musicianship.
Where: Rancho Mirage | More Info: Lindsey Stirling at The Show
Unique blend of classical and modern music.
The Texas Tenors are a renowned musical group known for their powerful performances, blending classical and modern music styles. With a rich history dating back to 2009, they have achieved significant recognition, including three Emmy Awards and numerous chart-topping albums.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: The Texas Tenors
Heartwarming tale of childhood Christmas dreams.
A Christmas Story follows nine-year-old Ralphie Parker from Indiana as he daydreams about Christmas Day, navigating the challenges and joys of childhood.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Rich cultural tapestry of Mexican Christmas traditions.
Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande present Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico, a vibrant show weaving cherished Mexican traditions into a heartwarming story of the season. The event features the joyous rhythms of "Bells Upon Bells" and colorful Mexican dance, capturing the spirit of Posadas, the majesty of the Reyes Magos, and the thrill of breaking piñatas.
Where: Rancho Cucamonga | More Info: Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
Unique holiday event with beautifully decorated trees and local artisans.
The Festival of Trees Holiday Fair at the Riverside Convention Center features over 46 beautifully decorated holiday trees, 50 local craft vendors, delicious holiday treats, free kids' activities, local holiday dance performances, and Santa. Children can create holiday cards and crafts to take home and visit Santa for a photo.
Where: Riverside | More Info: Festival of the Trees Holiday Fair
Personalized holiday photos with Santa.
Capture memories with Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert, where festive atmosphere and holiday cheer come together.
Where: Palm Desert | More Info: Photos With Santa at The Shops at Palm Desert
Holiday activities in a historic resort setting.
La Quinta Resort offers a Vintage Holiday Special with luxurious accommodations, holiday dining options, and festive activities like Holiday Brittle cooking demonstrations and handcrafted holiday cocktails.
Where: La Quinta | More Info: Holidays at La Quinta Resort
Snow play and sled rides with over 40 tons of fresh snow.
The Fontana Festival of Winter is a free community event featuring train rides, live entertainment, photo opportunities with Santa, and a variety of vendors and activity booths. It includes snow play and sled rides, making it an exciting experience for all ages.
Where: Fontana | More Info: Fontana Festival of Winter
